SCORES of fans gathered for an emotional unveiling of a memorial garden dedicated to football legend Sir Bobby Robson.

Family, friends and dignitaries came together to honour the former Newcastle United and England manager at a special ceremony held to officially open the garden near St James’ Park yesterday.

United’s manager Alan Pardew also attended the event on the former Carnegie Electric site at Gallowgate in Newcastle city centre.

Tributes were first paid by lord mayor of Newcastle, coun Brenda Hindmarsh, who said: “He was a family man who loved the North East and this football club. This memorial garden, in the shadow of St James’ Park, is a tribute to that remarkable life.”

Five carved stones – each one representing an era of Sir Bobby’s life – were then unveiled by his wife, Lady Elsie Robson, and sons Mark and Andrew.

Speaking to The Journal, Andrew said: “It’s been a while in the planning and the family are absolutely delighted at the opening of this garden reflecting the five eras of my father’s career in the stories, on the stones. We are very grateful to Newcastle City Council for creating this garden.

“I just think my father would have been amazed that a memorial garden has been set up in the centre of Newcastle, particularly in the shadow of St James’ Park.”

The garden was created on a spot close to the stadium, where Sir Bobby first watched his heroes play as a child before returning in 1999, aged 66, to become one of the club’s best-loved managers.

It is hoped the space will provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and be an area for people to relax and reflect.

Lady Robson said: “My husband took great pride in his own garden at home and my family and I feel this is a very fitting memorial to him.

“We’re very grateful to everyone who has helped make this garden a reality and look forward to seeing it develop and grow over the years.

“I hope people enjoy spending time there remembering Bob with affection.”

Emotions also ran high among the fans who had flocked to watch the ceremony before heading off to see the Magpies draw 3-3 with West Bromwich Albion in the last game of the season.

Paul Richards, 48, from Jarrow, in South Tyneside, said: “It’s exactly what it should be. He was totally respected. The man was just brilliant and even Sunderland fans loved him.

“It’s what the man stood for. I think a few managers today should take a leaf out of his book.”

Another fan, George Whitup, 41, from Fenham, in Newcastle, said: “I think it’s good that he is honoured in this way, not just for football, but because he was a true gentleman. He had a hard battle with cancer but he never let it get him down.”

Former England and Newcastle United manager Sir Bobby died in July 2009 following a longstanding battle with cancer.

After he was diagnosed with cancer for a fifth time, he vowed to raise cash to fund the fight against the disease and established The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

He launched the charity in March 2008 and it has now raised more than £3m to fight the illness in the region.

For more information visit www.sirbobbyrobsonfoundation.org.uk